Here are some tips on how to optimize the nursery sleep environment
Cribs
Crib standards have changed since some of the well-known crib types actually proved to be unsafe and for this reason, you should keep up with the new crib standards.
Staying updated on crib safety standards is crucial for ensuring the well-being of your baby.
Old cribs may not meet current safety guidelines, such as the distance between the slats and the type of materials used, potentially putting your child at risk.
It’s advisable to consult with the latest guidelines from credible organizations, like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the United States, to make sure that your baby’s sleeping environment is as safe as possible.
When it comes to the best crib mattresses, you’ll want to consider factors such as material, firmness, and fit within the crib. Look for mattresses made of non-toxic, high-quality materials that have passed rigorous safety tests.
A good crib mattress should be firm to reduce the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Also, ensure that the mattress fits snugly within the crib, leaving no gaps where a baby could potentially get stuck.
Always read reviews, consult safety guidelines, and even consult your pediatrician for recommendations tailored to your child’s needs.
Cribs with fixed rails are now standard, as drop sides turned out to be dangerous and are now banned in the US. However, the UK has a different design of drop sides, which still proves to be safe. It is also unsafe to use crib bumpers. Even though the crib seems safer that way, they don’t prove to be of any help, instead, they pose a threat of suffocating, entangling and strangling.
Bars shouldn’t be too spaced for your child to get stuck. If you can put a can through them, then they are too spaced. And make sure that the crib rail is high enough, at least 26 inches above the mattress.
Linens and Bedding
As with the bumpers, so is with everything else. Pillows, blankets or stuffed animals shouldn’t find their place in the crib, as they can increase SIDS risk. Also, sleep positioners and cocoons are redundant. Only mesh liners prove to be useful and safe.
All you need is a firm mattress and tight-fitting sheets. While second-hand cribs can be alright if not too old, the mattress should be brand new. A mattress can be home to many bacteria, dust mites and mold. You can even consider buying an organic mattress to be sure there are no harmful chemicals in it.
Lights
Nursery rooms should always be kept dim, as this is the environment in which we snooze best. To keep it this way, consider buying blackout curtains or something similar to darken the room.
Keep the electronics away. They produce blue light, the same light emitted by the sun, which can disrupt sleep. Set up warm amber light, such as from Edison bulbs, they are more calming and sleep-inducing.
Sounds
Soundproofing your room is also a part of sleep hygiene, both for parents and babies. Especially if you live in a noisy area, white or pink noise machines can be of help to neutralize and cover up any external noises that can disrupt and alarm the baby.
Also, another piece of advice is to avoid anything that can turn off at some point during sleep, like lullaby music or projector imagery. Babies get used to falling asleep with these and a sudden stop is likely to cause them to wake up.
Temperature
Good sleeping also depends on the temperature, but that’s not the only reason to be mindful of the thermostat. Heat is also known to raise the risk of SIDS. So set the room temperature between 68-72 ̊F, or around 20 degrees celsius. This is also a standard optimal temperature for sleep.
There are lots of electronics that can be useful to keep the air cool and fresh, from fans, air-conditioners or humidifiers, but be sure to always keep the filters in check, so as not to spread the caught up pollutants.
Placing
This concerns the crib as well as everything around it. You have to think practical. First of all, the crib shouldn’t be near the window, especially because of the blinds and curtains the toddler can climb. Also, never place it near the radiator, because of the overheating risk.
Be mindful of the way you install cables from formerly mentioned electronics. In such darkened rooms, sleep-deprived parents usually trip over anything in their way. This goes for anything placed on the floor. It is best to go minimal.
Be mindful of the placement, sounds, temperature and other aspects of the nursery
Practice your sleep hygiene with the baby. As much as they need sleep, they need well-rested parents as well. Knowing how this isn’t quite possible, you should do whatever you can to make whatever sleep you have potent for both you and your baby.